Brora Rangers manager Steven Mackay hopes to tie up a deal for Tom Kelly in the coming weeks.
Former Ross County youngster Kelly impressed during a loan spell with the Highland League champions last term and Mackay is keen to bring him back to Dudgeon Park.
Kelly was let go by County in the summer, as was James Wallace who also joined him at the Cattachs last season.
Talks have already taken place between the two parties and once Brora get greater certainty over their finances for the coming season, a deal could be reached.
Mackay said: “Tom did superb for us, along with James Wallace as the two loan boys from Ross County. Tom in particular was outstanding.
“There’s no hiding from the fact we’re keen to do something with him and we’ve already had talks. Hopefully that can be tied up in the next few weeks when we know where we are with budgets.
“He’s a fantastic young player, an unbelievable attitude who carries himself really well. He ticks all the boxes in terms of what we look for in a player.”
Mackay has managed to retain the majority of his squad for the new Highland League season. The only player to depart is back-up goalkeeper Steve Martin, who struggled for game-time behind club captain Joe Malin.
Last summer they managed to add Greg Morrison (Ross County) and Jordan MacRae (Cove Rangers), before moving for Andrew Macrae from Forres Mechanics in the autumn.
He added: “It’s always a challenge to keep your squad together, but, as a club, we’ve created a great atmosphere and work ethic that makes it hard for players to leave. As a player you always want the best for yourself financially, no matter what level you play at, but you also look for the environment and an opportunity to grow as a player. I think we tick all the boxes.
“I don’t think it’s too much of a challenge for us to recruit players. The biggest challenge is we’ve now set our standard in the players we look for and the recruitment model we adopt.
“When players like Tom Kelly become available it’s up to us to act on that and try to secure them.
“I think they’re enjoying their football and it shows on the park.
“Since myself, Cammy (Craig Campbell) and David Hind have been available, we want to attract the best young players in the Highland League if we can and then give them an environment they can prosper. Then, hopefully they’ll want to stay here.”
